Career planningManaging performance

Set up a career conversation

5 minutes

Career development conversations are a great way to connect with your team members on their goals and growth. With the right approach—from choosing a comfortable setting to preparing a few key points and inviting them warmly—you can create an open, productive dialogue.

Follow these steps to set the stage for meaningful, growth-focused conversations with your team.

Choose the right timing and setting

Select a time and place where both of you can talk without interruptions. A comfortable, private setting will help create a relaxed atmosphere for an open discussion.

Prepare key points to cover

Draft some open-ended questions, such as what they enjoy about their current role and where they see themselves in the future. Having these in mind will allow for a more structured yet flexible conversation.

Send a clear, warm invitation

Use the email below to invite them to the conversation, making it clear that the goal is to support their growth and career aspirations.

Let them know they play a role in preparing

Encourage them to do some pre-thinking about their career goals and areas they’d like to explore so they feel prepared to make the most of the conversation.

Meeting Invite

Hi [Team Member’s Name],

I’d like to set up a time for us to have a career development conversation. This will be an open, relaxed discussion focused on your goals, strengths, and the areas where you’d like to grow.

Agenda:

Explore your career aspirations.
Identify areas you’re proud of and your vision for the next few years.
Identify areas for growth and possible goals.
Discuss available resources (training, mentorship, etc.) that could support your development.

I’m looking forward to a productive conversation about your career.

Warm regards
[Your Name]

Hellomonday